Sony Alpha Blog

Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art

Published by

Marc Alhadeff

on

A Sony camera with a large Sigma lens attached, showcasing the lens detail and camera body design against a light background.

in blue English / en noir en français

Table of Contents / Table des matières hide
1 Presentation
1.1 Specifications
1.3 AF performance
2 Optical performances / Performances Optiques
2.1 Sharpness / Piqué
2.2 Vignetting , chromatic aberrations , distortion, flare, sunstars
2.2 Vignettage, aberrations chromatiques, distorsion, flare, effets d’étoiles
2.3 Bokeh / Color rendition – Bokeh / Rendu des Couleurs
3 Video
4 Comparison with other 135mm / Comparaison avec d’autres 135mm
4.1 Specifications
4.2 Sharpness / Piqué
4.3 Bokeh / Background blur / Color rendition / Piqué / flou d’arrière plan et rendu des couleurs
4.4 Distortion / CA / Vignetting / Flare – Distorsion / AC / Vignettage / Flare
4.5 Portraits / Portraits
4.6 Conclusion
5 Sample of Photos / Exemples de Photos
6 Conclusion (English)
6 Conclusion (Français)
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Thanks to Photogalerie.com I could test the new Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art

All photos , taken with Sony A7RV and without post processing are available in full size (61Mpix) in the following Flickr album suivant : Sigma 135mm f1.4 DG Art

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Grâce à Photogalerie.com j’ai pu tester le nouveau Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art

Toutes les photos de l’article, prises avec le Sony A7RV et sans retouches sont disponibles en pleine résolution (61Mpix) dans l’album flickr suivant : Sigma 135mm f1.4 DG Art

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1 Presentation

A Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens mounted on a Sony camera, showcasing its robust build, focus and aperture controls on the lens barrel.
A Sony camera with a Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens attached, showcasing the lens's design, focusing ring, and controls.
Close-up view of a Sony camera body with a Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens attached, showcasing the lens's focusing mechanism and tripod mount.
Photo of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens attached to a camera, showing focus settings and a detachable tripod collar.
A Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens mounted on a Sony camera, showcasing its focus and aperture controls.

1.1 Specifications

  • Weight : 1430 g
  • Price : 1899 euros / 1899 $  
  • Aperture : F1.4- F16
  • Length : 135,5mm
  • Diameter : 111,7mm
  • Filter : 105mm
  • 13 blades aperture
  • Buttons : Focus hold , AF/MF, Click/clickless
  • Aperture ring
  • Minimal focusing distance : 110 cm
  • Lens hood
  • Tripod collar

The Sigma 135mm F1.4 , is the first of its kind. There was a MF 135mm F1.4 from Mitakon built on order for 3000$ and 2.5 kg but it was never largely distributed

A large, black camera lens attached to a Fujifilm camera body, showcasing its design and build quality.
Mitakon 135mm F1.4

The Lens is fat and heavy, but not very long. 

The build quality and ergonomics are excellent .

There is a large focusing ring and an aperture ring that can be set to click or clickless.

There is a detachable tripod collar equipped with an Arca Swiss plate

The min focusing distance is quite long (110cm) compared to competitors

Image of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showcasing its design, focus ring, and control buttons.
Close-up image of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens displaying its design features including focus ring, aperture controls, and detachable tripod collar.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens facing front with focus hold button and tripod mount.
Front view of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens with focusing ring, aperture control, and tripod collar.
Front view of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showing the focus ring and aperture settings.
Photo of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showing its detailed exterior features and focusing controls.
  • Poids : 1430g
  • Prix : 1899 euros – 1899 $ euros
  • Ouverture : F1.4 – F16
  • Longueur : 135 mm
  • Filtre : 105mm
  • Diamètre 111,7mm
  • Diaphragme à 13 lamelles
  • Boutons : maintien de mise au point, AF/MF, click/declic
  • Distance minimale de mise au point : 110 cm
  • Pare soleil
  • Collier de trépied

Le Sigma 135mm F1.4 est le premier de son genre. Il y avait deja une optique MF 135mm F1.4 de chez Mitakon mais elle pesait 2.5kg, coutait 3000$ et était fabriqué à la demande

L’objectif est assez cout mais très gros et lourd

La qualité de construction et l’ergonomie sont excellentes, avec une bague de mise au point très large, une bague d’ouverture avec ou sans clics

Il y a un collier de trépied détachable muni d’un plateau Arca Swiss

La distance min de mise au point est assez longue (110cm) comparé aux concurrents

Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens displayed in a side profile view, showcasing its focus and aperture controls.
A side view of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showcasing its robust build, focus and aperture controls, and tripod collar.
Close-up of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showing the lens barrel and controls.
A close-up view of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens, showcasing its sleek, cylindrical design and large lens hood.
Close-up view of a black lens hood for a camera, showcasing its cylindrical shape and texture.
A black tripod collar attachment for a camera lens, showcasing a circular mounting area, a flat base, and a textured grip knob.
Image of the Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens with a lens hood attached, showcasing its robust build and design features.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showcasing its design and features, including the focus and aperture rings.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens showing focus hold and aperture control features with a matte black finish.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens with focus and aperture rings in a close-up view.
Close-up view of a black Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens with aperture settings and focus switch.

1.3 AF performance

  • AF is fast, accurate and silent. In burst mode it is very efficient
  • Eye AF / Tracking is working very well 
  • AF is limited to 15fps due to Sony limitations

Performances AF

  • L’AF est rapide, précis , et silencieux. Pour de la rafale sur sujets en mouvements aucun soucis
  • L’AF sur les yeux fonctionne très bien
  • La vitesse est limitée à 15i/sec à cause des limitations de Sony
A person on a bicycle wearing a navy blue sweater and a dark scarf, looking away while in an urban setting with shops in the background.
A woman riding an electric bicycle on a street, focusing ahead with a serious expression. She is dressed in a dark sweater and wearing a blue scarf, with light-colored pants. The background is blurred, emphasizing the subject.
A woman riding a bicycle in a city, wearing a dark sweater and a blue scarf, with a focused expression.
A woman riding a bicycle through a street with red umbrellas and outdoor seating in the background.
A person riding a bicycle on an urban street, with another pedestrian walking in the opposite direction. The setting features outdoor cafe seating and urban infrastructure.
A man riding a bicycle in an urban setting, wearing a black jacket and blue jeans, with a backpack, while others walk nearby.
A woman riding a bicycle while using her phone in an urban setting, with people sitting and standing in the background.
A woman riding a bicycle while using her smartphone, surrounded by trees and benches in an urban setting.
A woman riding a bicycle in an urban setting, passing by a large advertisement with the word 'Brouck' prominently displayed.
A woman riding a bicycle in an urban setting with a colorful food truck in the background.

2 Optical performances / Performances Optiques

The tests were mainly made on a Sony A7RV, with its 61 Mpix

Les tests ont été effectués principalement sur un Sony A7RV avec ses 61Mpix

2.1 Sharpness / Piqué

A comparison table displaying lens sharpness ratings at various aperture settings.
  • The performance is excellent outstanding wide open and outstanding as of F2 on the entire field
  • Globally an outstanding performance
  • Les performance sont excellentes à pleine ouverture et superbe dès F2 sur tout le champ
  • Une superbe performance 

Centre / Centre

A neatly arranged bookshelf filled with various cookbooks and a 20 euro banknote placed prominently among them.
  • F1.4
  • F2
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
  • F8
  • F11
  • F16

Corners / Coins

Close-up view of a bookshelf filled with various cookbooks and literary works, showcasing the colorful spines and titles.
  • F1.4
  • F2
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
  • F8
  • F11
  • F16

Distant subjects / Sujets distants

  • In the centre excellent wide open , with a boost to outstanding as of F2
  • Excellent corners 
  • Au centre excellent à pleine ouverture et superbe dès F2
  • Excellent coins
Close-up of modern building architecture, showcasing angular metal features and glass panes.
F1.4 centre
Close-up view of a modern building's facade featuring horizontal metal slats and windows.
F5.6 centre
Close-up view of a modern building's reflective glass and metal facade with horizontal stripes.
F2.8 corner
Close-up image showing the sleek, reflective exterior of a modern building, with alternating panels of glass and metallic elements.
F5.6 corner
Close-up view of a modern building featuring glass and metal architectural elements, with greenery in the foreground.
full size
Close-up of a detailed stone statue on a building facade, featuring a male figure with long hair and a robe, adorned with a golden belt and decorative elements.
F1.4
Statue of a man with a serious expression, wearing a robe and a belt, located on a building with ornate architectural details and windows in the background.
F2.8
Close-up of a stone statue with intricate details, including a golden ribbon, placed beside windows on a historic building.
F5.6
Facade of historical buildings with intricate architectural details and golden decorations against a clear blue sky.
full size

Sharpness for portraits / Piqué pour les portraits

  • The sharpness is excellent wide open and outstanding as of F2, the skin rendering is excellent
  • Le piqué est excellent à pleine ouverture et superbe dès F2. Le rendu des peaux est excellent
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair wearing a beige jacket, standing outdoors with a blurred background.
F1.4
Close-up of a human eye with detailed iris and eyelashes, showing natural colors and textures.
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a beige trench coat, set against a blurred background.
F1.8
Close-up of a human eye showing detailed iris patterns and eyelashes.
Close-up portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a light trench coat, smiling softly against a blurred background.
F2.8
Close-up of a human eye showcasing detailed iris and eyelashes.
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a beige coat, with a neutral expression against a blurred outdoor background.
F4
Close-up of a human eye with long eyelashes and a light blue iris.
Portrait of a smiling woman with curly hair, wearing a black jacket, set against a blurred background with soft bokeh lights.
F1.4
Close-up of a human eye showing intricate details, including eyelashes, a bright iris with shades of blue and green, and subtle skin textures surrounding the eye.
A smiling woman with curly hair wearing a black jacket, set against a blurred background with soft bokeh lights.
F1.8
Close-up of a human eye with detailed eyelashes and a reflection visible in the pupil.
Close-up portrait of a smiling person with curly hair, wearing a black jacket, in a blurred urban background.
F2.8
Close-up of a person's eye, featuring detailed eyelashes and a colorful iris with various shades of blue and green.
Portrait of a woman with curly hair wearing a black jacket, smiling at the camera with a blurred background featuring out-of-focus lights.
F4
Close-up view of a human eye showing detailed features, including the iris, eyelashes, and skin texture.
Portrait of a smiling woman with curly hair, wearing a black jacket, standing in a city setting with blurred background.
F5.6
Close-up of a human eye showcasing intricate details such as eyelashes, iris texture, and reflection.

2.2 Vignetting , chromatic aberrations , distortion, flare, sunstars

  • Vignetting is low at F1.4 and disappears at F4
  • Distortion is relatively strong in pincushion
  • Chromatic aberrations are very low
  • LoCA are moderate
  • Resistance to flare is very good
  • At F16 we can get some sunstars

2.2 Vignettage, aberrations chromatiques, distorsion, flare, effets d’étoiles

  • Le vignettage est faible à F1.4 et disparait à F4
  • La distorsion est assez forte pour une focale fixe
  • Les aberrations chromatiques sont très faibles
  • Les AC longitudinales sont modérées
  • La résistance au flare est très bonne
  • Des effets d’étoiles peuvent être obtenus vers F16
A bookshelf filled with various cookbooks and culinary literature, displaying a 20 euro banknote sitting on one of the shelves.
F1.4 not corrected
A neatly organized bookshelf displaying a variety of colorful cookbooks and culinary guides, with a 20 euro banknote placed on a book.
F1.4 corrected
Open book with visible text on the pages, showcasing a blurred background and shallow depth of field.
F1.4 LoCA
Close-up shot of printed text showing varying degrees of sharpness and focus, with a shallow depth of field emphasizing certain words.
Crop 100%
Close-up of green leaves with sunlight shining through, creating a soft bokeh effect.
F1.4 CA / AC
Abstract close-up image showing blurred and bright highlights with reflections, suggesting light interaction with a transparent surface.
F1.4 CA / AC crop 100%
Close-up view of green leaves with sunlight shining through, creating lens flare effects.
F16 sunstars & flare

2.3 Bokeh / Color rendition – Bokeh / Rendu des Couleurs

  • The Bokeh balls are excellent but not as big as foreseen due to the min focusing distance that is quite long 105cm. The Bokeh Balls are well rounded even in the borders no fringing at the borders, no onion rings.
  • The F1.4 vs F1.8 allows at close distance a little bit bigger bokeh balls and to blur more busy background
  • The background blur is super smooth
  • Color rendition is excellent
  • Contrast is very good. 
  • Les ronds de Bokeh sont excellents , mais pas aussi gros que prévu à cause de la distance min de mise au point assez longue (105cm). Ils sont biens ronds même proches des boards, les bords des ronds de bokeh sont doux, pas de tranches d’oignons
  • Le F1.4 vs F1.8 permet des ronds de bokeh légèrement plus grand mais surtout de flouter davantage les arrière plans encombrés
  • Le flou d’arrière plan est très doux 
  • Le rendu des couleurs est excellent
  • Le contraste est très bon
A close-up of a Playmobil figurine standing on a bottle cap, with a blurred colorful bokeh background.
F1.4
A Playmobil figure standing on a red cylindrical object, with a blurred background featuring colorful bokeh lights.
F2
A close-up of a Playmobil figure dressed in a vest and shirt, standing on a red surface with a blurred background featuring circular bokeh lights, creating a vibrant and colorful effect.
F28
A Playmobil figure dressed in a blue vest and gray pants, standing on a red surface, with a blurred background featuring colorful bokeh lights.
F4
A Playmobil figure stands on a bottle cap with a blurred background featuring colorful bokeh lights.
F5.6
A close-up image showing a blurred background with soft, round bokeh circles in various colors, with part of a black object in the foreground.
F1.4
Close-up of a black metal object with soft, blurred bokeh background featuring circular light spots in various colors.
F1.8
A vintage street lamp standing amidst blurred greenery in soft light.
F1.4
An old-fashioned street lamp surrounded by greenery, with a soft focus background and warm lighting effect.
F1.8
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a light-colored trench coat, captured with a blurred background.
F1.4
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair, wearing a light-colored coat, against a blurred background.
F1.8
Portrait of a smiling woman with curly hair, wearing a black jacket. The background is blurred, showcasing a bokeh effect with soft light circles.
F1.4
Portrait of a woman with curly hair, smiling and wearing a black jacket, with a softly blurred background featuring warm circular bokeh lights.
F1.8
  • F1.4
  • F1.8
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F1.4
  • F1.8
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
  • F1.4
  • F2
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
  • F1.4
  • F1.8
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
  • F1.4
  • F2
  • F2.8
  • F4
  • F5.6
Close-up of colorful ivy leaves against a textured stone background, showcasing autumn hues and a soft focus.
Close-up of a dry yellow leaf resting on a textured stone surface.
A close-up image of a small insect with a black body and orange legs resting on a gray surface.
A close-up view of a padlock secured on a wooden gate with a chain, surrounded by ivy.
Close-up of ivy leaves showcasing their detailed texture and green hues.
A close-up of delicate pink flowers on a green background, showcasing intricate petal details and lush green leaves.
A variety of colorful stainless steel water bottles on display, featuring the brand 'waterdrop' with different pastel colors and wooden lids.
Colorful display of handmade soaps stacked on wooden shelves, featuring various shapes and vibrant hues including pink, green, and orange.
Brightly colored display of vibrant pink bath products shaped like raspberry desserts, sitting on a wooden surface.

3 Video

  • In video we get excellent results in term of sharpness, Bokeh, background blur . The color rendition is excellent
  • The clickless aperture ring is very nice for video
  • AF is very good globally 
  • Focus breathing is moderate

  • Excellent résultats en vidéo avec un excellent piqué , un très beau bokeh et flou d’arrière plan et un rendu des couleurs excellent
  • La bague d’ouverture est sans clics parfait pour la vidéo.
  • L’AF est très bon globalement
  • Le focus breathing est visible

Focus Breathing

A Playmobil figurine with brown hair and wearing a vest and tie, standing on a red pedestal. Bookshelves are blurred in the background.
A blurry image of a bookshelf filled with various cookbooks and a euro banknote, with a red and black item in the foreground.

4 Comparison with other 135mm / Comparaison avec d’autres 135mm

There are mainly 4 others 135mm F1.8 AF

Il y a principalement 4 autres 135mm F1.8 avec AF

Comparison of two camera lenses: Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art on the left and Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM on the right, showcasing their distinct designs and size.
Comparison of two camera lenses side by side: Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art on the left, Sony 135mm F1.8 GM on the right.
Comparison of two camera lenses side by side on a white background, highlighting their design and features.
Two large camera lenses side by side, one with a red 'G' logo and the other labeled 'LAB'. Both have a matte black finish and visible control rings.
Comparative image of two 135mm lenses: on the left, the AF 135mm / F1.8 FE; on the right, the Sony FE 1.8/135 GM, showcasing their design and features.

Sigma 135mm F1.8 DG Art-6

4.1 Specifications

Sigma 135mm F1.4 DGViltrox 135mm f1.8 LABSamyang 135mm F1.8 AF Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GMSigma 135mm F1.8
Price / Prix1899 euros999 euros800 euros1629 euros1400 euros
Weight / Poids1430g1235g772g950g1300g
Length / Longueur135mm145mm129,6mm127mm140mm
AF+++++++++++
Buttons / bague d’ouvertureClick/Clickless aperture ringAF/MFAF/MF
Mode 1/2 (clickless aperture)
Focus limiter		AF/MF
Mode 1/2 (clickless aperture)
Focus limiter		Click/Clickless aperture ringAF/MFFocus limiterAF/MF
Focus limiter
Min focusing distance / Distance min de mise au point110cm70cm69cm70cm87cm
Build Quality / Quality de construction+++++++++++++++
Weather sealing / Resistance stout tempsYesYesYesYesYes
Aperture blades / Lames de diaphragme131111119
Filter / Filtre105mm82mm82mm82mm1

The Samyang 135mm is the cheapest AF one and the lightest of the F1.8. It has a very good build quality but the Sony and the Viltrox are a bit better in that matter. The Samyang has the shortest min focusing distance by a tiny hair

The Viltrox is by far the most heavy of the F1.8: +30% vs The Sony , +70% vs the Samyang ! The Viltrox is really a pain to carry during several hours

The Sigma F1.4 is obviously the heavier but not the biggest (Viltrox). It is the one with the least good min focusing distance

Ergonomics are best on the Sony and Sigma then on the Viltrox

The AF is best on The Sony. The Sigma F1.4 is second The Viltrox is third and the Samyang 4th specially for sports. The Sony is also the only one compatible with the 120fps of A9III and 30fps of the A1. The Samyang, Sigma and Viltrox are limited to 15fps

Le Samyang 135mm F1.8 AF est le moins cher des 135mm avec AF et le plus léger. Sa qualité de construction est très bonne mais le Sony GM , le Sigma et le Viltrox sont un cran au dessus. Le Samyang est celui avec la plus courte distance de mise au point d’un cheveu

Le Viltrox est de loin le plus lourd des f1.8: +30% par rapport au Sony et +70% par rapport au Samyang. Le Viltrox est pénible à porter plusieurs heures

Le Sigma F1.4 est bien entendu le plus lourd mais il est étonnamment compact par rapport au Viltrox. C’est celui avec la moins bonne distance min de mise appoint

L’ergonomie est très bonne sur les Sony , Sigma et Viltrox

L’AF est le meilleur sur le Sony, en second vient le Sigma , puis le Viltrox et en dernier le Samyang. Pour le sport le Sony garde l’avantage en termes d’efficacité et c’est le seul compatible avec les 120i/s du A9 et 30i/s du A1. Le Samyang et le Viltrox sont limité à 15i/sec

4.2 Sharpness / Piqué

Tableau comparatif des performances optiques des objectifs 135mm, incluant les marques Sigma, Samyang, Sony et Viltrox à différentes ouvertures.

The difference are marginal on 61Mpix, all are excellent lenses

Les différences sont marginale sur 61Mpix , tous sont excellent

4.3 Bokeh / Background blur / Color rendition / Piqué / flou d’arrière plan et rendu des couleurs

  • In term of background blur no real difference at equal aperture and distance the Sony , Samyang and Viltrox have a creamy background
  • The Sigma F1.4 beats all of them in term of quantity of bakcground blur you can achieve and size of Bokeh Balls at >1m. Where the Sigma fails is for very close distance as all the others have around 20cm less longer min focusing distance
  • Bokeh balls : Sigma is the best closely followed by Sony then we have the Viltrox and the Samyang
  • The Sigma give a little plus to separate your subject from the background but in most case the difference between F1.4 and f1.8 will be marginal and not worth the additional weight
  • Globally the Sony give a little bit more natural and gentle portraits and the Samyang & Viltrox a bit more punchy results, it is a matter of which rendering you prefer
  • En termes de flou d’arrière-plan , le Viltrox, Sony et le Samyang ont un flou d’arrière-plan très doux et meilleur que les autres (Sigma / Zeiss Batis)
  • Ronds de Bokehs. : Le Sony est légèrement supérieur avec des ronds qui restent ronds à F4 là où le Samyang et le Viltrox ne sont plus tout à fait circulaires
  • En termes de rendu des couleurs les Viltrox, Samyang et le Sony sont meilleurs que les autres.
  • Le Samyang et le Viltrox sont un peu plus contrasté et donne des images plus croustillantes, le Sony a un rendu un peu plus doux et subtil pour les portraits
Un figurine Playmobil au premier plan avec un flou d'arrière-plan créant des cercles de bokeh colorés.
Sigma 135mm f1.4 @F1.4
A Playmobil figure in formal attire stands on a red canister, with a colorful bokeh background highlighting the figure.
Sigma 135mm f1.4 @F2
Un personnage Playmobil debout sur une surface avec un arrière-plan flou comprenant des éléments lumineux colorés en bokeh.
Sigma 135mm f1.4 @F2.8
A Playmobil figure dressed in a suit with brown hair stands in front of a blurred, colorful bokeh background.
Samyang F1.8
A Playmobil figure stands in front of a blurred background showcasing colorful bokeh effects.
Viltrox F1.8
A Playmobil figure in focus with a soft, colorful bokeh background featuring blue and green circular shapes.
Sony F1.8
A Playmobil figurine stands on a small base, beautifully captured with a blurred colorful bokeh background.
Samyang F2.8
A Playmobil figure in front of a blurred background featuring colorful bokeh lights.
Viltrox F2.8
A Playmobil figure in a suit standing on a mount, with a blurred colorful bokeh background featuring circles of blue and green light.
Sony F2.8
A Playmobil figure in a suit stands on a black base, with colorful bokeh lights in the background, creating a soft focus effect.
Samyang F4
A close-up of a Playmobil figure standing against a blurred background with colorful bokeh lights.
Viltrox F4
A Playmobil figure dressed in a formal outfit stands on a mount, with a colorful bokeh background featuring circular light spots.
Sony F4
A Playmobil figurine with brown hair and a blue vest stands on a black surface, with colorful bokeh in the background.
Samyang F5.6
A close-up of a Playmobil figure in a suit, standing against a blurred, colorful bokeh background.
Viltrox F5.6
A Playmobil figure in focus, standing on a dark base, with colorful bokeh lights in the background.
Sony F5.6
A Playmobil figure in a formal outfit stands on a black base, with colorful bokeh lights in the background creating a festive atmosphere.
Samyang F8
A Playmobil figure stands in focus against a softly blurred colorful bokeh background.
Viltrox F8
A Playmobil figure dressed in a smart outfit stands on a black base, with a colorful blurred background of lights creating a bokeh effect.
Sony F8

4.4 Distortion / CA / Vignetting / Flare – Distorsion / AC / Vignettage / Flare

  • Distortion and vignetting are quite the same except for the Sigma that is significantly worse for distortion
  • The Samyang and Sigma have better flare resistance and lower CA than the Sony , Viltrox or Sigma
  • La distortion et le vignettage sont similaires sur le Samyang , le Viltrox et le Sony, le Sigma a lui pas mal de distorsion
  • Le Samyang et les Sigma ont les plus faibles AC et une bien meilleure résistance au flare que les Sony , Viltrox ou Sigma
A shelf filled with various cookbooks and a 20 Euro banknote placed prominently in front.
Sigma 135mm F1.4
A close-up photo of a bookshelf filled with various cookbooks and a 20 Euro note placed in front of one of the books.
Viltrox 135mm F1.4
A collection of cookbooks and culinary guides organized on a shelf, featuring titles in French, alongside a 20 Euro note placed prominently.
Samyang
Books lined up on a shelf, including titles on cooking, dieting, and vegetarianism, with a 20 euro note visible on the shelf.
Sony
Silhouette of bare tree branches against a bright sun in a hazy sky.
Samyang F1.8
A bright sun shining through a tangle of bare tree branches, creating a lens flare effect.
Sony F1.8
Sunlight filtering through leaves, creating a starburst effect against a cloudy sky.
Samyang F22
Sunlight streaming through green leaves, creating a soft flare effect.
Sony F22
135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art 018 at 135 mm - 1-4000 s à f - 1,8 à ISO 100-072
Sigma 135mm F1.8 @F1.8
135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art 018 at 135 mm - 1-160 s à f - 11 à ISO 100-075
Sigma 135mm F16
Close-up of green leaves with sunlight creating a flare effect in the background.
Viltrox F1.8
Sunlight shining through green leaves, creating a flare effect.
Viltrox F16
Close-up image of green leaves with sunlight shining through, creating a bokeh effect.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 CA / AC
Sunlight shining through green leaves, creating lens flare and starburst effects against a clear blue sky.
Sigma 135mm F1.4 @F16 sunstars & flare

4.5 Portraits / Portraits

  • They are all quite similar , but the Sigma had a bit of extra to further blur the background and isolate your subject
  • Les rendus sont très similaires mais le Sigma apporte un plus pour flouter plus l’arrière plan et isoler votre sujet
Portrait of a young woman with long blonde hair wearing a beige coat, looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.
Sigma 135mm F1.4
A couple posing together outdoors, the woman is wearing a black netted sweater and the man is dressed in an orange bomber jacket with a navy blue shirt underneath. They are holding hands and smiling.
Viltrox
A woman walking on a street, holding a smartphone and a jacket, with a focused expression on her face.
Viltrox
A smiling woman with long brown hair, wearing a black mesh top, stands outdoors with a blurred background featuring colorful awnings.
Viltrox
Three women posing together on a city street, dressed in stylish winter clothing. The background shows blurred pedestrians and architectural elements.
Samyang F1.8
Three women posing together on a city street, dressed in fashionable outfits and smiling at the camera.
Sony F1.8
Portrait of a young woman wearing a bright pink beanie, smiling softly in an outdoor setting with blurred background.
Samyang F1.8
Portrait of a young woman wearing a bright pink beanie, with a soft background and warm lighting.
Sony F1.8
Close-up of a person's eye, showcasing intricate details of the iris, eyelashes, and skin texture.
Samyang F1.8
Close-up image of a human eye showing detailed eyelashes and iris coloration.
Sony F1.8
A young woman wearing a bright pink beanie and a black jacket, smiling softly at the camera, with a blurred background of colorful lights.
Samyang F2.8
Portrait of a young woman wearing a bright pink knit beanie, smiling gently, with a blurred background showcasing soft colors.
Sony F2.8
Close-up photograph of a human eye, showcasing detailed eyelashes, a distinct iris with shades of brown and green, and a reflection in the pupil.
Samyang F1.8
Close-up of a human eye showcasing detailed textures, eyelashes, and iris coloration.
Sony F2.8
Group of four young women smiling together in a street setting, dressed in winter clothing, with blurred background.
Samyang F1.8
Four young women posing together outdoors, smiling and dressed in stylish coats, with a blurred background.
Sony F1.8
135mm F1.8 DG HSM | Art 018 at 135 mm - 1-6400 s à f - 1,8 à ISO 100-330
Sigma 135mm

4.6 Conclusion

All Those 135mm are excellent lenses. The Sigma F1.4 as being the unique F1.4 is obviously adding a little plus for portraits to blur busy background but at the cost of a significant more weight and price

The Samyang will be the cheapest alternative and the lightest, The Sony will be recommended if you need to go above 15fps and if you want to have a reasonable weight. The Viltrox is also excellent but it is the most heavy of all for a F1.8

Tous ces 135mm sont excellents. Le sigma F1.4 étant le seul à offrir cette ouverture il garde un avantage dans certains cas précis pour plus flouter l’arrière plan mais son poids et sa distance min de mise au point le pénalise

Le Samyang est l’alternative la moins chère et la plus légère. Le Sony vous offrira des vitesses > 15i/s et un poids mesuré. Le Viltrox est aussi excellent mais il est très lourds pour un F1.8

5 Sample of Photos / Exemples de Photos

  • In real life , the results obtained are excellent
  • En situation réelle les résultats obtenus sont excellents
Portrait of a young woman with long hair and blue eyes, wearing a black jacket, captured in soft focus with a blurred background.
F1.4
Portrait of a young woman with long hair wearing a black hoodie, standing confidently with a blurred background.
F1.8
Two smiling individuals posing for a photo, with blurred city background.
F1.4
Portrait of two smiling individuals standing close together, with a blurred background featuring soft bokeh lights.
F1.8
  • F1.4
  • F1.4
  • F1.4
  • F1.4
  • F1.4
  • F1.4
Postcards featuring the Grand Place and Brussels, Belgium, displayed on a stand.
Close-up of vibrant red strawberries arranged in clear plastic containers at a market.
Three delicious waffles displayed in boxes, each topped with different ingredients: the left one features whipped cream and a Lotus biscuit, the center one is adorned with whipped cream and strawberries, and the right one has a zigzag of chocolate drizzle and more strawberries.
Colorful display of building bricks in transparent containers, labeled 'Pick & Build'.
Tables and chairs in a stylish indoor café setting, with a focus on the green metal furniture and an inviting atmosphere.
A bustling arcade with people walking, adorned with floral decorations and various shop signs, showcasing the architecture and ambiance of a lively shopping area.
Two people sitting at an outdoor café table engaged in conversation, with additional patrons in the background.
A busy arcade with people walking, featuring shops and decorative architecture.
Two young women chatting casually outdoors, with a café scene in the background.
People sitting at tables outside a café, engaging in conversation and enjoying drinks.
A woman crossing the street wearing a blue jacket, light-colored pants, and a colorful scarf, with a bag over her shoulder. The background shows a blurred cityscape with buildings and vehicles.
A man with a long beard wearing a light blue shirt and a backpack, walking in a busy urban street.
A woman with long, wavy blonde hair is holding a smartphone in one hand and a bottle of water in the other hand while taking a picture. She is wearing a black shirt and has a green strap bag across her shoulder.
A woman walking in a city street while looking at her phone, wearing a green and white jacket with a red strap and black trousers.
A woman walking on a street, wearing a black and beige cardigan with an argyle pattern, carrying a large bag and a blue blanket. A stroller is visible in the background.
A woman and a girl walking together on a busy street, both dressed casually. The woman has curly red hair and is wearing a denim jacket with brown pants, while the girl is in a grey sweatshirt and blue jeans. The background shows a crowded city scene.
A close-up portrait of a woman with bright red hair styled with a barrette, wearing a light-colored off-shoulder top and a pearl necklace, smiling against a blurred background.
Photo of a man wearing a light gray hoodie and black cap, smiling and making peace signs with both hands.
Portrait of a young woman with long black hair, wearing a black sweatshirt with 'LIBRE' printed on it, standing in a busy outdoor setting with blurred figures in the background.
Two young women posing for the camera, one showing a peace sign and the other smiling, outdoors with a blurred crowd in the background.
Two young women posing for a photo in a crowd, one giving a peace sign and holding a coffee cup, dressed in casual clothing against a blurred background.
Portrait of a woman smiling, wearing a black coat and a checkered scarf, with a blurred background depicting a lively atmosphere.
Portrait of two young women standing together in an outdoor setting, with one wearing a black jacket and the other in a beige coat.
Two young women walking together on a cobblestone street, one wearing a black outfit and the other in a beige jacket.
Young woman wearing a white blouse, plaid skirt, and knee-high boots, walking in a cobblestone area with outdoor seating in the background.
A young woman in a white blouse and plaid skirt is standing on a cobblestone street while using her phone, with a child in a lilac jacket sitting in the background.

6 Conclusion (English)

The Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art (1899 euros) is a unique lens : the first ever 135mm F1.4 with AF and is a masterpiece : outstanding sharpness, excellent color rending , super soft background blur , excellent bokeh balls, AF , low vignetting , very good resistance to blare. Build quality is excellent and ergonomics are excellent

But it is a heavy lens and quite large. Does the 50% more weight vs the Sony , or even 100% more weight vs the Samyang worth it to get a little bit more background blur ? Only if the 135mm is your favorite focal length and you use it on day to day

Worth also to mention the min focusing distance is long (110cm vs 70cm for competition)

Recommended for distant portraits if weight is not important

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Pros

  • Excellent to outstanding sharpness as of F1.4 on the entire field
  • Excellent AF
  • Super Smooth background blur
  • Excellent Bokeh balls
  • Excellent build quality
  • Excellent ergonomics with a click/clickless aperture ring
  • Excellent rendering for portrait
  • Detachable tripod collar
  • Low CA
  • Low vignetting
  • Resistance to flare
  • Size

Average

  • Price
  • Focus breathing
  • Distortion
  • Min focusing distance quite long (110cm)
  • Large diameter (but still compatible with traditional 105mm filter)

Cons

  • Weight
A Sony camera body with a Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art lens attached, showcasing the lens details and focus switch.

6 Conclusion (Français)

Le Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art (1899 euros) est une optique d’exception : c’est le premier 135mm F1.4 avec AF : piqué superbe , excellent rendu des couleurs , flou d’arrière plan très doux, excellent ronds de bokeh , excellent AF , faible vignettage, très bonne résistance au flare. La qualité de construction et l’ergonomie sont excellentes

Mais l’optique est très large est lourde. Est ce que 50% de poids en plus par rapport au Sony et 100% de poids en plus par rapport au Samyang vaille la peine pour flouter légèrement plus l’arrière plan ? Seulement si le 135mm est votre focale fétiche et que vous l’utilisez tous les jours

Il faut aussi mentionner la longue distance minimum de mise au point à 110cm au lieu de 70 cm pour la concurrence

Recommandé pour les portraits distants si le poids n’est pas important

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Pour

  • Piqué excellent à superbe dès F1.4 sur tout le champ
  • AF rapide, précis et silencieux
  • Excellent rendu des couleurs
  • Excellent ronds de Bokeh
  • Flou d’arrière plan très doux
  • Excellente qualité de construction
  • Collier de trépied détachable
  • Excellente ergonomie avec une bague d’ouverture avec ou sans clics
  • Excellent contraste
  • Faible vignettage
  • Très bonne résistance au flare
  • AC très Faible
  • Taille

Moyen

  • Prix
  • Focus breathing
  • Distorsion
  • Distance min de mise au point longue par rapport aux concurrents (110cm contre 70cm)

Contre

  • Poids

2 responses to “Sigma 135mm F1.4 DG Art”

  1. Gabriel Avatar
    Gabriel

    Je m’interroge par rapport à mon 105 f1,4, est-ce que je dois craquer ?

    Reply
    1. Marc Alhadeff Avatar
      Marc Alhadeff

      C’est plus une histoire de préférence de focale

      Reply

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